Italian newspapers, especially Corriere della Sera, were keen to highlight in their political pages a story that could almost be dismissed as gossip or lighthearted news. Giorgia Meloni and Donald Trump had a conversation. Not in a formal bilateral meeting, as one might expect, but on the sidelines of the splendid dinner hosted by Macron in Paris following the inauguration of the “new” Notre Dame.

The table was still set, the glasses of what was undoubtedly excellent wine still within reach, according to the reports. Nevertheless, both Trump’s and Meloni’s staff were eager to let the world know that the two leaders spoke. About what? Ukraine, the Middle East, relations with Europe. In short, about the world and its future.

Some claim Giorgia possesses a charisma and conviviality reminiscent of Berlusconi in his prime. Where diplomacy falls short, personal empathy bridges the gap. Is that a small thing? Others argue that she is poised to become the key European leader in negotiations with the new American president, putting Italy in a position of significant prestige—far from the “isolated Italy” narrative that opposition parties have been shouting about since June.

Of course, empathy and proficiency in direct communication with leaders are not enough on their own to navigate the complexities of global issues. But Meloni also has a solid political foundation: she is the only leader of the EU’s founding countries enjoying political stability and relative economic steadiness—certainly better off than France, shaken by a government crisis, and Germany, grappling with both a government crisis and the automotive industry’s struggles.

To round off this fruitful gathering at Notre Dame, our Prime Minister also squeezed in a casual meeting with Elon Musk. It has been a year since the eccentric entrepreneur attended Atreju, the annual and now almost Christmas-like festival of Fratelli d’Italia. At the time, it was dismissed as a quirky technological event. But today, those who talk to Musk are engaging with the main player in The Donald’s victory.

In short: empathy, English fluency, and foresight!

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The project, worth up to €4.1 billion, aims to boost battery production capacity for small- and mid-sized electric vehicles, addressing the growing demand for zero-emission vehicles in Europe. Production is expected to begin by the end of 2026, marking a crucial milestone in Stellantis’ electrification strategy, which already includes the Acc gigafactory, co-founded in 2020.

The Zaragoza plant could achieve an annual capacity of 50 GWh, an ambitious target dependent on support from local authorities and the European Union, as well as the evolution of the electric vehicle market. The LFP batteries, known for their durability and competitive costs, will be at the heart of this joint venture, enabling Stellantis to expand its range of electric vehicles in the B and C segments with improved range and affordability. Stellantis Chairman John Elkann emphasized the importance of this project in achieving a decarbonized future and strengthening the group’s technological leadership in battery development.

Meanwhile, Stellantis confirms that the details of the Termoli gigafactory in Italy, developed in collaboration with Acc, will be finalized by the first half of 2025. This plant will focus on producing batteries for larger vehicles, complementing the offering of the Spanish facility. However, delays in the Italian project, coupled with labor union tensions and criticisms regarding its impact on employment, highlight the challenges of aligning the group’s industrial ambitions with the needs of the affected regions.

The Spanish investment, incentivized by €357.8 million in state subsidies and European funds for decarbonization, was also facilitated by the support of the Sanchez government. This project reinforces Spain’s role as a strategic hub for the electric automotive industry in Europe, joining other major initiatives underway in the country. Within the European context, Stellantis reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable transition, but challenges related to competitiveness and governmental support remain central to ensuring the success of its vision for electric mobility.

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Giuseppe Conte has outlined a new path for the Five Star Movement (M5S), emphasizing democratic openness and a return to foundational values, yet tensions with Beppe Grillo remain high. In a Facebook live session, the former prime minister stated that the M5S must renew itself without mimicking traditional parties, instead focusing on grassroots efforts to rebuild credibility and support. “The era of mass expulsions is over. This is a democratic home for everyone,” Conte declared, stressing the need for inclusivity while criticizing the “moral degeneration” of traditional politics, citing Enrico Berlinguer.

The conflict with the movement’s founder, however, is deepening. Danilo Toninelli suggested a potential split, with Grillo ready to claim the party’s symbol and force Conte to establish a new party. Conte, on the other hand, expressed his readiness for a legal battle, vowing to fiercely defend the M5S’s honor. “Anyone trying to hinder our political action will face a solid barrier,” he warned. Conte described Grillo as increasingly “isolated” and disengaged from key political struggles, further straining the movement’s unity.

Conte has firmly ruled out the possibility of a split, arguing that there are no valid political reasons for such a move. “We are a community with solid and democratic roots. Those seeking an autocratic movement will find no place here,” he asserted. Determined to strengthen internal cohesion, Conte emphasized that over 80% of M5S members recently voted against Grillo in an internal consultation, signaling broad support for his leadership.

Another critical issue is the revision of the two-term limit, a topic Conte has left open for discussion. While rejecting careerism, he highlighted the need to value experience and skills to compete with other parties. “The community will decide—your vote matters,” he assured. Between democratic reforms, internal tensions, and organizational challenges, the M5S’s future hangs in the balance, with Conte determined to steer it toward a new political era.

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In an outstanding Champions League performance, AC Milan conquered the Santiago Bernabeu last night, securing a critical victory as the group stage reaches its halfway point. The Rossoneri took an early lead in the 12th minute with a goal by Thiaw and showed resilience when Vinicius equalized for Real Madrid on a penalty, momentarily tipping momentum towards the Spanish side. Just before halftime, former Real player Alvaro Morata restored Milan’s lead. In the second half, manager Fonseca’s tactical mastery was on full display as Milan’s midfield effectively contained Bellingham and the Madrid offense, defending their lead while capitalizing on counterattacks. Reijnders capped off the night with a brilliant goal in the 78th minute, sealing a 3-1 victory for Milan.

Meanwhile, Juventus, under coach Motta, managed a draw at Lille. Vlahovic converted a penalty to level the score after Lille’s star striker Jonathan David initially put the hosts ahead. This result spared Juventus from a second consecutive defeat.

Bologna, however, wasn’t able to avoid a home loss against Monaco. Despite a valiant effort, they were defeated by a late goal from Keher in the 86th minute. Bologna has now played four Champions League games without finding the net even once, adding pressure on coach Italiano.

In other notable results, Manchester City suffered a surprising 4-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon. Though City took an early lead with Foden’s goal in the 4th minute, Sporting responded in spectacular fashion, driven by a stellar performance from Gyokeres, who netted a hat-trick. Haaland missed a penalty at 3-1, failing to close the gap and allowing Sporting to complete their remarkable comeback.

Tonight, Inter and Atalanta will take the field at 9 p.m. Italian time. Inter faces Arteta’s Arsenal, a formidable opponent despite recent struggles in the Premier League, while Atalanta travels to Stuttgart to continue their strong European campaign, buoyed by their recent emphatic victory over Serie A leaders Napoli at the Maradona stadium.

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